Get started with formulas

In just a few steps, you'll be up and running with building formulas and functions in Excel, the
world's most powerful spreadsheet app.

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Formulas can
contain cell

Basics: doing math with Excel

Basics: doing math with Excel
references,
ranges of cell
You can Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide in Excel without using any built-in functions. You just need to use some basic opera
references,
You can Add,
operators, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide in Excel without using any built-in functions. You just need to use some basic opera
GOOD TO and
constants.
KNOW: The
following
Constants are
are cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.
To
all Add, select
examples of
values
To Add, that
selectyou cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.
formulas:
enter in cells You orcan Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide in Excel without using any built-in
formulas. functions.
To Subtract,
=A1+B1 select cellYou just need
F4, type to then
=C3-C4, use some basic operators: +, -, *, /. All formulas start
press Enter.
While =10+20
=10*20
might with
calculate an equals (=) sign.
To Multiply,
=SUM(A1:A10) select cell F5, type =C3*C4, then press Enter.
the same as select cell F5, type =C3*C4, then press Enter.
To Multiply,
=A1+B1,
Formulas
constants can
contain
aren't a cell
To Divide, good
select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.
references,
practice.
To Divide,Why?select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.
ranges
Becauseofyou cell
references,
can't
Check easily
this and
operators,
the constant
out:1 change the numbers in cells C3 and C4, and watch the formula results automatically change.
see
constants.
EXTRA CREDIT:
without The You can raise a value to a power by using the carat (^) symbol, like =A1^A2. Enter it with Shift+6. In cell F7, ente
following
Dive downthe
selecting are
for more detail
all
cellexamples
and of
Next step
formulas:
looking for it.
More
That can about
make formulas, cells, and ranges
=A1+B1
it hardisto
Excel
2
made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows are numbered, and columns are lettered. Th
=10*20
change later.
Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows are numbered, and columns are lettered. Th
=SUM(A1:A10)
It's much
easier to put
your constants
in cells, where
You'll notice
be that in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function is a pre-built command that takes a value o
they
You'll can 3
easily adjusted, in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function is a pre-built command that takes a value o
notice that
and referenced
in your with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows with its arguments (the values a function use
Formulas
formulas.
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows with its arguments (the values a function use
For example:
Select the 4
You confirm
yellow cell a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that the formula will calculate, and the result will be displayed in the cell
with 12 below.
You
You'llconfirm
see wea formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that the formula will calculate, and the result will be displayed in the cell
used the SUM
function with a
Some of
range formula
cells. explanations
We didn't
=10*20 is atype
formula, where 10 and 20 are constants, and the * sign is the operator.
in "4" or "8"
=SUM(A1:A10) is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formula argum
directly into Dive down for more detail
=SUM(A1:A10,C1:C10)
the formula. is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formul

Previous
Next
More information on the web
More about formulas, cells, and ranges
Use Excel as a calculator
Overview of formulas in Excel
Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows
are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000
columns, and you can put formulas in any of them.
 Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows
Excel functions (by category)
are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000
columns,
Excel functions and you can put formulas in any of them.
(alphabetical)
Free Excel training online
Formulas can contain cell references, ranges of cell references, operators, and
constants. The following are all examples of formulas:

=A1+B1
=10*20
=SUM(A1:A10)
You'll notice that in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function is
a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way,
and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell references or
ranges you specify, and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 through A10,
and totals them. Excel has over 400 functions, which you can explore on the Formulas
tab.
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows
with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.

You confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that the formula will calculate,
and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you can look at
the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode, where you'll see
the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalize the formula and calculate the
result.

Previous

More information on the web

 Basics: doing math with Excel
cs: doing math with Excel
can Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide in Excel without using any built-in functions. You just need to use some basic operators: +, -, *, /. Al
can Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide in Excel without using any built-in functions. You just need to use some basic operators: +, -, *, /. Al

dd, select cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.

dd, select cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.
You can Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide in Excel without using any built-in
functions.
ubtract, select cellYou just need
F4, type to then
=C3-C4, use some basic operators: +, -, *, /. All formulas start
press Enter.
with an equals (=) sign.
Multiply, select cell F5, type =C3*C4, then press Enter.
Multiply, select cell F5, type =C3*C4, then press Enter.

ivide, select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.

ivide, select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.
To Add, select cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.
1 change the numbers in cells C3 and C4, and watch the formula results automatically change.
ck this out:
RA CREDIT: You can raise a value to a power by using the carat (^) symbol, like =A1^A2. Enter it with Shift+6. In cell F7, enter =C3^C4.
down for more detail

e about formulas, cells, and ranges

To Subtract, select cell F4, type =C3-C4, then press Enter.
2
el is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 m
el is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 m

ll notice that in To
ourMultiply, select
third example cell F5,
above, we type
used =C3*C4, then press
the SUM function. Enter. is a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calcula
A function
3 in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function is a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calcula
ll notice that

mulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) w
mulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) w
To Divide, select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.
4
confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that the formula will calculate, and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see the form

confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that the formula will calculate, and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see the form

me formula explanations
*20 is a formula, where 10 and 20 are constants, and the * sign is the operator.
M(A1:A10) is a formula, where
Dive down SUM
for is the
more function name, the opening and closing parentheses
detail Next contain
step the formula arguments, and A1:A1
M(A1:A10,C1:C10) is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formula arguments, an

e information on the web

More about formulas, cells, and ranges
Excel as a calculator
rview of formulas in Excel
Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows
are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000
columns, and you can put formulas in any of them.
 Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows
el functions (by category)
are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000
columns,
el functions and you can put formulas in any of them.
(alphabetical)
e Excel training online
Formulas can contain cell references, ranges of cell references, operators, and
constants. The following are all examples of formulas: =A1+B1
Cell
referenc
=A1+B1 e
=10*20
=SUM(A1:A10)
You'll notice that in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function is
a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way,
and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell references or
Function
ranges you specify, and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 through A10,
and totals them. Excel has over 400 functions, which you can explore on the Formulas
tab. =SUM(A1
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows A range of cells has a sta
with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses. cell. When you select
Excel will autom
You confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that the formula will calculate,
and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you can look at
the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode, where you'll see
the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalize the formula and calculate the
Function
result.

Previous Next =SUM(A1

)
More information on the web Opening paren

Use Excel as a calculator

Overview of formulas in Excel

Excel functions (by category)

Excel functions (alphabetical) 

Free Excel training online

 Numbers to use:
Operation: Formulas: Answers:

1 Addition (+) 3
2 Subtraction (-) -1

Multiplication (*) 2

Division (/) 0.5

Power (^) 1
+6. In cell F7, enter
CHECK=C3^C4.
THIS OUT
Change the numbers here, and EXTRA CREDIT
watch the formula results You can raise a value to a
automatically change. power by using the carat
(^) symbol, like =C3^C4.
ns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000 columns, and you can put
Enterformulas in any of them.
it with Shift+6.
ns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000 columns, and you can put formulas in any of them.

that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way, and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell references
that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way, and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell references

alues a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.

alues a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.

isplayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you can look at the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode, where yo

isplayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you can look at the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode, where yo

the formula arguments, and A1:A10 is the cell range for the function.
contain the formula arguments, and A1:A10,C1:C10 are the cell ranges for the function separated by a comma.

GOOD TO KNOW
Constants are values that you enter in cells or
While =10*20 might calculate the same as =A1
aren't a good practice. Why? Because you can
constant without selecting the cell and looking
 GOOD TO KNOW
Constants are values that you enter in cells or
Operator Operator While =10*20 might calculate the same as =A1
aren't a good practice. Why? Because you can

=A1+B1
Cell
Cell
=10*20 constant without selecting the cell and looking
can make it hard to change later. It's much eas
constants in cells, where they can be easily ad
referenced in your formulas.
referenc Constant Constant
reference
e
For example: Select the yellow cell with 12 be
we used the SUM function with a range of cel
type in "4" or "8" directly into the formula.

Function Argument

=SUM(A1:A10)
A range of cells has a starting cell, colon, and an ending
cell. When you select a range of cells for a formula,
Excel will automatically add the colon.

Commas separate multiple arguments

Function Argument Argument

=SUM(A1:A10,C1:C10
) A range of cells Another range of cells

Opening parenthesis Closing parenthesis. Excel will usually add this for
you when you press Enter.
function takes the cell references or ranges you specify, and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 through A10, and totals them
function takes the cell references or ranges you specify, and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 through A10, and totals them

s F2 to enter Edit mode, where you'll see the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalize the formula and calculate the result.

s F2 to enter Edit mode, where you'll see the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalize the formula and calculate the result.

O KNOW
re values that you enter in cells or formulas.
20 might calculate the same as =A1+B1, constants
d practice. Why? Because you can't easily see the
hout selecting the cell and looking for it. That
O KNOW
re values that you enter in cells or formulas.
20 might calculate the same as =A1+B1, constants
d practice. Why? Because you can't easily see the
hout selecting the cell and looking for it. That
hard to change later. It's much easier to put your
cells, where they can be easily adjusted, and
n your formulas.

: Select the yellow cell with 12 below. You'll see

SUM function with a range of cells. We didn't
or "8" directly into the formula.

Values
4
8
12

ally add this for

nter.
gh A10, and totals them. Excel has over 400 functions, which you can explore on the Formulas tab.
gh A10, and totals them. Excel has over 400 functions, which you can explore on the Formulas tab.

late the result.

late the result.

DETAIL
=SUM(D3:D6),
or type =SUM(,
Double-click
thencell.
this selectYou'll
that range
notice the 100with
the mouse,
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and
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Although
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Enter.
it's possible
This will to
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Introduction to functions
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should
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Now let's it's
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absolutely
Now let's try AutoSum. Select the cell under the column for Meat (cell G7), then go to Formulas > AutoSum > select SUM. You'
necessary.Functions
This give you the ability to do a variety of things, like perform mathematical
Now
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enters
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it's
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there. We
Next step 1
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More about to functions
If the SUM
another cellfunction could talk, it would say, return the sum of all the values in cells D38 to D41, and all of column H. SUM is the
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seen and notcells. Then in the lower-right corner of the Excel window, look for SUM: 170 in the bottom bar. That's called the St
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a Then in the lower-right corner of the Excel window, look for SUM: 170 in the bottom bar. That's called the St
formula.
More information on the web
All about the3 SUM function
Use AutoSum to sum numbers
All about the COUNT function
Free Excel training online
Back to top Dive down for more detail
Next step

More about functions

Go to the Formulas tab and browse through the Function Library, where functions are
listed by category, like Text, Date & Time, etc. Insert Function will let you search for
functions by name, and launch a function wizard that can help you build your formula.

When you start typing a function name after you press =, Excel will launch Intellisense,
which will list all of the functions starting with the letters you type. When you find the
one you want, press Tab, and Excel will automatically finish the function name and enter
the opening parenthesis for you. It will also display the optional and required arguments.

Now let's look at the anatomy of a few functions. The SUM function is structured like
this:
 If the SUM function could talk, it would say, "Return the sum of all the values in cells
D38 to D41, and all of column H".

Now, let's try one that doesn't require any arguments.

More information on the web

Back to top

Free Excel training online

Go back to top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To proceed to the next step, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
 to the Formulas tab and browse through the Function Library, where functions are listed by category, like Text, Date & Time, etc

en you start typing a function name after you press =, Excel will launch Intellisense, which will list all of the functions starting wit
Introduction to functions
oduction to functions
ctions give you the ability to do a variety of things, like perform mathematical operations, look up values, or even ca
w let's try AutoSum. Select the cell under the column for Meat (cell G7), then go to Formulas > AutoSum > select SUM. You'll see Excel auto
w let's try AutoSum. Select the cell under the column for Meat (cell G7), then go to Formulas > AutoSum > select SUM. You'll see Excel auto
w let's Functions
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Select cell D15, calculate
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en
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contain
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1 Under the Amount column for Fruit (cell D7), enter =SUM(D3:D6), or type
=SUM(, then select that range with the mouse, and press Enter. This will sum
e about functions
e SUM functionthe values
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return andsumD6.ofYour answer
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CK THIS OUT2 Now let's try AutoSum. Select the yellow cell under the column for Meat
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AutoSum feature has all of the most common functions.
e information on the web
bout the3 Here's a neat keyboard shortcut. Select cell D15, then press
SUM function Altthen, =
AutoSum to sum Enter. This automatically enters SUM for you.
numbers
bout the COUNT function
e Excel training online
Dive down for more detail Next step

More about functions

Go to the Formulas tab and browse through the Function Library, where functions are
listed by category, like Text, Date & Time, etc. Insert Function will let you search for
functions by name, and launch a function wizard that can help you build your formula.

When you start typing a function name after you press =, Excel will launch Intellisense,
which will list all of the functions starting with the letters you type. When you find the
one you want, press Tab, and Excel will automatically finish the function name and enter
the opening parenthesis for you. It will also display the optional and required arguments.

Now let's look at the anatomy of a few functions. The SUM function is structured like
this:

The function The first Additional

name. argument. It's arguments,
almost always separated by
required. commas (,).
 The function The first Additional
name. argument. It's arguments,
almost always separated by
required. commas (,).

=SUM(D38:D41,H:H)
If the SUM function could talk, it would say, "Return the sum of all the values in cells
D38 to D41, and all of column H".

Now, let's try one that doesn't require any arguments.

The TODAY function returns today's date. It will

automatically update when Excel recalculates.

=TODAY()

More information on the web

All about the SUM function

Use AutoSum to sum numbers

All about the COUNT function

Free Excel training online

Back to top Next step

e Excel training online

back to top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To proceed to the next step, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
Fruit Amount Meat Amount
Apples 50 Beef 50
Oranges 20 Chicken 30
Bananas 60 Pork 10
Lemons 40 Fish 50
SUM > 170 SUM >

Item Amount Item Amount

Bread 50 Bread 50
Donuts 100 Donuts 100
Cookies 40 Cookies 40
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
SUM > COUNT >

EXTRA CREDIT
Try the COUNT function using any
of the methods you've already
tried. The COUNT function counts
the number of cells in a range that
contain numbers.

Fruit Amount
Apples 50 CHECK THIS OUT
Select these cells. Then in the lower-right
Oranges 20 corner of the Excel window, look for this:
Bananas 60
Lemons 40
That's called the Status Bar, and it's just
SUM > 170 another way to quickly find a total and other
details about a selected cell or range.
Item Amount
Cars 20
Trucks 10
Bikes 10
Skates 40

Total: Additional Value New Total

180 100 180

IMPORTANT DETAIL
Double-click this cell. You'll notice the 100 toward the
end. Although it's possible to put numbers in a formula
like this, we don't recommend it unless it's absolutely
necessary. This is known as a constant, and it's easy to
forget that it's there. We recommend referring to another
cell instead, like cell F51. That way it's easily seen and not
hidden inside a formula.
EXTRA CREDIT
Try using
CHECK THIS
MEDIAN or
OUT
MODE here.
AVERAGE function
AVERAGE
Select any
function
range
MEDIAN of gives
Use the AVERAGE
numbers, then function to get the average of numbers in a range of cells.
you the value
Select
look
in Use
cell the AVERAGE function
the D7, then use AutoSum
theinmiddle to get
to add anthe averagefunction.
AVERAGE of numbers in a range of cells.
Status
of
Now Bar for
theselect
data set,
cell G7, and enter an AVERAGE function by typing =AVERAGE(G3:G6).
an instant
D15, 1
while
In cell gives
Average.
MODE you can use either AutoSum, or type to enter another AVERAGE function.
the one that
occurs
Activatethe
the previous sheet
next2sheet
most
Go to the
frequently.

Links for more information on the web

3
Select to learn all about the AVERAGE function on the web
Select to learn all about the MEDIAN function on the web
Select to learn all about the MODE function on the web
Select to learn about free Excel training on the web
Previous
Previous

More information on the web

 AVERAGE function
the AVERAGE function to get the average of numbers in a range of cells.
ect cellUse
D7,the AVERAGE
then function
use AutoSum to get
to add anthe averagefunction.
AVERAGE of numbers in a range of cells.
w select cell G7, and enter an AVERAGE function by typing =AVERAGE(G3:G6).
ell D15, 1 Select
you can cell D7,AutoSum,
use either then use AutoSum
or type to to addanother
enter an AVERAGE
AVERAGEfunction.
function.

vate the previous sheet

2
o the next sheet
Now select cell G7, and enter an AVERAGE function by typing
=AVERAGE(G3:G6).
s for more information on the web
3 In cell
ct to learn all about D15, youfunction
the AVERAGE can useon either
the webAutoSum, or type to enter another AVERAGE
function.
ct to learn all about the MEDIAN function on the web
ct to learn all about the MODE function on the web
ct to learn about free Excel training on the web
Previous
Previous Next
Next

More information on the web

All about the AVERAGE function

All about the MEDIAN function

All about the MODE function

Free Excel training online

Fruit Amount Meat Amount
Apples 50 Beef 50 CHECK THIS OUT
Select any range of numbers,
Oranges 20 Chicken 30 then look in the Status Bar for an
Bananas 60 Pork 10 instant Average.
Lemons 40 Fish 50
AVERAGE > AVERAGE >

Item Amount Item Amount

Bread 50 Bread 50
Donuts 100 Donuts 100
Cookies 40 Cookies 40
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
AVERAGE >

EXTRA CREDIT
Try using MEDIAN or MODE here.
MEDIAN gives you the value in
the middle of the data set, while
MODE gives the one that occurs
the most frequently.

More about the SUM function

In some of the above tips, we taught you how to use the SUM function. Here are more details about it.
Cells C37 through D41 contain data with two columns: Fruit and Amount.
The formula in cell D42: =SUM(D38:D41).
If the SUM function in cell D42 could talk, it would say this: Sum up the values in cells D38, D39, D40, and D41.
Here's another way it can be used:
Cells C47 through D48 contain data with two columns: Item and Amount.

More information on the web

All about the SUM function
All about the SUMIF function
Use Excel as your calculator
Free Excel training online
Go back to top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To proceed to the next step, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
OUT
numbers,
atus Bar for an
GOOD TO KNOW
You can use
either MIN or
MAX with
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Select
show
MIN
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Previous

More information on the web

You can use either MIN or MAX with multiple ranges, or values to show the greater or lesser of those values, like =MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10), or

More information on the web

All about the MIN function
All about the MAX function
Use Excel as your calculator
Free Excel training online
 MIN and MAX functions
and MAX functions
the MIN function to get the minumum number in a range of cells.
Use
the MAX the MIN
function to getfunction to get
the maximum the smallest
number in a rangenumber
of cells. in a range of cells.
Use the MAX function to get the largest number in a range of cells.

1 Select cell D7, then use the AutoSum Wizard to add a MIN function.

obut the MIN function

2 Now select cell G7, and enter a MAX function by typing =MAX(D3:D6).
bout the MAX function
Excel training online

3 In cell D15, you can use either the AutoSum Wizard, or type to enter a MIN
or MAX function.

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More information on the web

can use either MIN or MAX with multiple ranges, or values to show the greater or lesser of those values, like =MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10), or =MAX(A1:A10,10

e information on the web

All about the MIN function
bout the MIN function
bout the MAX function
All about the MAX function
Excel as your calculator
Excel training online
Free Excel training online
 Fruit Amount Meat Amount
Apples 50 Beef 50
Oranges 20 Chicken 30
Bananas 60 Pork 10
Lemons 40 Fish 50
MIN > MAX >

Item Amount Item Amount

Bread 50 Bread 50
Donuts 100 Donuts 100
Cookies 40 Cookies 40
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
MIN or MAX > 10

(A1:A10,B1:B10), or =MAX(A1:A10,10).
GOOD TO KNOW
You can use either MIN or MAX with multiple
ranges, or values to show the greater or lesser of
those values, like =MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10), or
=MAX(A1:A10,B1), where B1 contains a threshold
value, like 10, in which case the formula would
never return a result less than 10.
DETAIL
which
If you don't
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someone's
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formula
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give you the current date, based on your computer's regional settings. You can also add and subtract Dates.
=NOW(),
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portion
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of give
the TODAY function, which gives you Today's date. These are live, or volatile functions, so when you open your work
=IF(D7="","",D
the current
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which
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Dates
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next Dates.
birthday in MM/DD/YY format in cell D7, and watch Excel tell you how many days away it is by
hours.
equals You'll
time Excel
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the cell
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show Dates as a-IfLet's say you want to know what date a bill is due, or when you need to return a library book. You can add days to a
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decimals.

If this formula3could talk, it would say, "Take the Time Out and subtract it from the Time In, then subtract the Lunch Out/In Tim
Previous
Next
More information on the web
All about the TODAY function
All about the NOW function
All about the DATE function
Free Excel training online
Time functions
Excel can give you the current time, based on your computer's regional settings. You
can also add and subtract times. For instance, you might need to keep track of how
many hours an employee worked each week, and calculate their pay and overtime.

3
 Previous

More information on the web

 Date functions
el can give you the current date, based on your computer's regional settings. You can also add and subtract Dates.
ck out the TODAY function, which gives you Today's date. These are live, or volatile functions, so when you open your workbook tomorrow,
Excel can give you the current date, based on your computer's regional settings. You
can also
tract Dates add
- Enter and
your subtract
next Dates.
birthday in MM/DD/YY format in cell D7, and watch Excel tell you how many days away it is by using =D7-D6 in

Dates - Let's say you want to know what date a bill is due, or when you need to return a library book. You can add days to a date to find ou
1 Check out the TODAY function, which gives you Today's date. These are live, or
OD TO KNOW volatile functions, so when you open your workbook tomorrow, it will have
el keeps dates and times based on the number of days starting from January 1, 1900. Times are kept in fractional portions of a day based on
tomorrow's date. Enter =TODAY() in cell D6.

el can give2you the

Subtract
current Dates - Enter
time, based onyour
your next birthday
computer's in MM/DD/YY
regional format
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can also addD7,
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watch Excel tell you how many days away it is by using =D7-D6 in cell D8.

is formula3couldAdd
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say, "Take the want to know
Time Out what date
and subtract a bill
it from theis Time
due, In,
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you the Lunch Out/In Times, then multipl
need to return a library book. You can add days to a date to find out. In cell
D10, enter a random number of days. In cell D11, we added =D6+D10 to
e information oncalculate
the webthe due date from today.
bout the TODAY function
bout the NOW function
bout the DATE function
e Excel training online
Time functions
Excel can give you the current time, based on your computer's regional settings. You
can also add and subtract times. For instance, you might need to keep track of how
many hours an employee worked each week, and calculate their pay and overtime.

1 In cell D28, enter =NOW(), which will give the current time, and will update
each time Excel calculates. If you need to change the Time format, you can
go to Ctrl+1 > Number > Time > Select the format you want.

2 Add up hours between times - In cell D36 we've entered =((D35-D32)-

(D34-D33))*24, which calculates someone's start and end times, then
subracts the time they took for lunch. The *24 at the end of the formula
converts the fractional portion of the day that Excel sees into hours. You'll
need to format the cell as a Number though. To do that, go to Home >
Format > Cells (Ctrl+1) > Number > Number > 2 decimals.

3 If this formula could talk, it would say, "Take the Time Out and subtract it
from the Time In, then subtract the Lunch Out/In Times, then multiply
those by 24 to convert Excel's fractional time to hours", or =((Time In -
Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Out))*24.
 If this formula could talk, it would say, "Take the Time Out and subtract it
from the Time In, then subtract the Lunch Out/In Times, then multiply
those by 24 to convert Excel's fractional time to hours", or =((Time In -
Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Out))*24.
*24 to convert Excel's
fraction of a day to
Time Out Lunch Out hours

=((D35-D32)-(D34-D33))*24

Time In Lunch In

GOOD TO KNOW
The inner parentheses () make sure Excel calculates those You can use keyboard
parts of the formula by themselves. The outer that won't continuous
parentheses make sure Excel multiplies the final inner result by
24. Date - Ctrl+;
Time - Ctrl+Shift+:

Previous Next

More information on the web

All about the TODAY function

All about the NOW function

All about the DATE function

Free Excel training online

ou open your workbook tomorrow, it will have tomorrow's date. Enter =TODAY() in cell D6.

y days away it is by using =D7-D6 in cell D8.

Date functions
Today's date:
Your birthday:
Days until your birthday: 0
IMPORTANT DETAIL
ct times. For instance, you might need to keep track of how many hours anIfemployee
you don't worked eachtoweek,
want Excel and
display calculatenumber,
a negative their pay and overti
because you haven't entered your birthday yet, you can
Grace period days: use an IF function like this: =IF(D7="","",D7-D6), which
says, "IF D7 equals nothing, then show nothing,
Bill due on: 0 otherwise show D7 minus D6".
e Lunch Out/In Times, then multiply those by 24 to convert Excel's fractional time to hours", or =((Time In - Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Ou

GOOD TO KNOW
Excel keeps dates and times based on the number of days
starting from January 1, 1900. Times are kept in fractional
portions of a day based on minutes. So 01/01/2017 12:30
PM is actually stored as 42736.5208. If the Time or Date
show up as numbers like that, then you can press Ctrl+1 >
Number > select a Date or Time format.

Time functions
Current Time:

Daily Hours Worked

Time In: 0.3333333333
Lunch Out: 0.5
Lunch In: 0.5416666667
Time Out: 0.7083333333
Total Hours: 8
 Static Date & Time
Date: 43005
Time: 0.3694444444

GOOD TO KNOW
You can use keyboard shortcuts to enter Dates and Times
that won't continuously change:
Date - Ctrl+;
Time - Ctrl+Shift+:
culate their pay and overtime.
ative number,
hday yet, you can
",D7-D6), which
nothing,
Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Out))*24.
 Joining text from different cells
Joining text from different cells
There are many times in Excel when you want to join text that's in different cells. This example is very common, where you hav

In cell E3, enter =D3&C3 to join the last and first names.
There are many times in Excel when you want to join text that's in different cells. This
SmithNancy doesn't look quite right though. We need to add a comma and a space. To do that we'll use quotes to create a new
example is very common, where you have first and last names, and want to combine
them as first name, last name, or full name. Fortunately, Excel lets us do that with the
To create the full name, we'll join first and last name, but use a space without a comma. In F3, enter =C3&" "&D3.
Ampersand (&) sign, which you can enter with Shift+7.
Dive down for more detail
Next
Using text and numbers together
Now we'll use the & to join text and numbers, not just text and text
1
Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join them together with the & symbol like you
In cell C36, enter =C28&" "&TEXT(D28,"MM/DD/YYYY"). MM/DD/YYYY is the US format code for Month/Day/Year, like 09/25/2

2 =C29&" "&TEXT(D29,"HH:MM AM/PM"). HH:MM AM/PM is the US format code for Hours:Minutes AM or PM
In cell C37, enter

CHECK THIS OUT

Formulas, especially big ones, can sometimes be hard to read, but you can break up their parts with spaces like this:

=C28 & " " & TEXT(D28,"MM/DD/YYYY")

WORTH EXPLORING
3 what format code to use, you can use Ctrl+1 > Number to format any cell the way you want. Then select the
If you don't know
More information on the web
All about the TEXT function
Combine text and numbers
Free Excel training online

Dive down for more detail

Using text and numbers together

Now we'll use the & to join text and numbers, not just text and text

Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join
them together with the & symbol like you'll see in cells C32:C33, but that doesn't look
right, does it? Unfortunately, Excel doesn't know how you want to format the
numbers, so it breaks them down to their basest format, which is the the Serial date in
this case. We need to explicity tell Excel how to format the number portion of the
formula, so it displays the way you want in the resulting text string. You can do that
Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join
them together with the & symbol like you'll see in cells C32:C33, but that doesn't look
right, does it? Unfortunately, Excel doesn't know how you want to format the
numbers, so it breaks them down to their basest format, which is the the Serial date in
this case. We need to explicity tell Excel how to format the number portion of the
formula, so it displays the way you want in the resulting text string. You can do that
with the TEXT function and a format code.

Previous

More information on the web

 Joining text from different cells
ing text from different cells
re are many times in Excel when you want to join text that's in different cells. This example is very common, where you have first and last n

ell E3, enter =D3&C3 to join the last and first names.
There are many times in Excel when you want to join text that's in different cells. This
thNancy doesn't look quite right though. We need to add a comma and a space. To do that we'll use quotes to create a new text string. Thi
example is very common, where you have first and last names, and want to combine
them as first name, last name, or full name. Fortunately, Excel lets us do that with the
reate the full name, we'll join first and last name, but use a space without a comma. In F3, enter =C3&" "&D3.
Ampersand (&) sign, which you can enter with Shift+7.
down for more detail

ng text and numbers together

w we'll use the &Intocell
joinE3,
text and numbers,
enter =D3&C3not just text
to join the and
last text
and first names.
1
k at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join them together with the & symbol like you'll see in cells C3
ell C36, enter =C28&" "&TEXT(D28,"MM/DD/YYYY"). MM/DD/YYYY is the US format code for Month/Day/Year, like 09/25/2017.
SmithNancy doesn't look quite right though. We need to add a comma and
2 =C29&"
ell C37, enter "&TEXT(D29,"HH:MM
a space. AM/PM").
To do that we'll use HH:MM
quotes to createAM/PM
a new is thestring.
text US format
Thiscode
time,for Hours:Minutes AM or PM, like 1:30 PM.
enter =D3&", "&C3. The &", "& portion lets us join a comma and space
with the text in the cells.
CK THIS OUT
mulas, especially big ones, can sometimes be hard to read, but you can break up their parts with spaces like this:

8 & " " & TEXT(D28,"MM/DD/YYYY")

RTH EXPLORING
To create
formatthe fulltoname, we'll
canjoin
use first and last name, but use
anya cell
space
3 what
u don't know
without a
code
comma.
use, you
In F3, enter
Ctrl+1
=C3&"
> Number
"&D3.
to format the way you want. Then select the Custom option.
e information on the web
bout the TEXT function
mbine text and numbers
e Excel training online

Dive down for more detail Next

Using text and numbers together

Now we'll use the & to join text and numbers, not just text and text

Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join
them together with the & symbol like you'll see in cells C32:C33, but that doesn't look
right, does it? Unfortunately, Excel doesn't know how you want to format the
numbers, so it breaks them down to their basest format, which is the the Serial date in
this case. We need to explicity tell Excel how to format the number portion of the
formula, so it displays the way you want in the resulting text string. You can do that
Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join
them together with the & symbol like you'll see in cells C32:C33, but that doesn't look
right, does it? Unfortunately, Excel doesn't know how you want to format the
numbers, so it breaks them down to their basest format, which is the the Serial date in
this case. We need to explicity tell Excel how to format the number portion of the
formula, so it displays the way you want in the resulting text string. You can do that
with the TEXT function and a format code.

1 In cell C36, enter =C28&" "&TEXT(D28,"MM/DD/YYYY"). MM/DD/YYYY

is the US format code for Month/Day/Year, like 09/25/2017.

2 In cell C37, enter =C29&" "&TEXT(D29,"HH:MM AM/PM"). HH:MM

AM/PM is the US format code for Hours:Minutes AM or PM, like 1:30 PM.
WORTH EXPLO
If you don't know wha
Ctrl+1 > Number to fo
Then select the Custo
Previous Next code that's displayed

More information on the web

All about the TEXT function

Combine text and numbers

Free Excel training online

 First Name Last Name Last Name, First Name Full Name

Nancy Smith Smith, Nancy Nancy Smith

Andy North

Jan Kotas
Mariya Jones
Steven Thorpe
Michael Neipper

Robert Zare

Yvonne McKay
Minutes AM or PM, like 1:30 PM.

t. Then select the Custom option. You can copy the format code that's displayed back to your formula.

Using text & numbers

Today's date: 43707
Current time: 43707.330846918

Joining text & numbers

Today's date: 43707
Current time: 43707.3308469184

Formatting text & numbers CHECK THIS OUT

Formulas, especially big ones, can sometimes
Today's date: 08/30/2019 be hard to read, but you can break up their
Current time: 07:56 AM parts with spaces like this:

=C28 & " " & TEXT(D28,"MM/DD/YYYY")

WORTH EXPLORING
If you don't know what format code to use, you can use
Ctrl+1 > Number to format any cell the way you want.
Then select the Custom option. You can copy the format
code that's displayed back to your formula.
Copy
anywhere
formula
allow D9
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in incell
return
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=IF(C3="Apple","Yes","No")IMPORTANT
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Define
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*1.25,0).
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workbook.
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When you
here to learn create a formula, Excel will automatically place colored borders around any ranges referenced in the formula, and th
When
more. you create a formula, Excel will automatically place colored borders around any ranges referenced in the formula, and th

Previous
Next
More information on the web
All about the IF function
All about the IFS function
Dive down for more detail
Advanced IF statements
Free Excel training online

IF statement with another function

IF statements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain
condition is met. Here we're going to evaluate a cell to see if Sales Tax should be
charged, and calculate it if the condition is true.

2
 2

Previous

More information on the web

 IF statements
atements allow you to make logical comparisons between conditions. An IF statement generally says that if one condition is true do somet

IF statements allow you to make logical comparisons between conditions. An IF

statement generally says that if one condition is true do something, otherwise do
ORTANT DETAIL else. The formulas can return text, values, or even more calculations.
something
E and FALSE are unlike other words in Excel formulas in that they don't need to be in quotes, and Excel will automatically capitalize them. N
C3="Apple","Yes","No")IMPORTANT DETAIL
E and FALSE are unlike other words in Excel formulas in that they don't need to be in quotes, and Excel will automatically capitalize them. N
C3="Apple","Yes","No")
down for more detail
1 In cell D9 enter =IF(C9="Apple",TRUE,FALSE). The correct answer is TRUE.
atement with another function
atements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain condition is met. Here we're going to evaluate a cell to see if Sa
atements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain condition is met. Here we're going to evaluate a cell to see if Sa
2 Copy D9 to D10. The answer here should be FALSE, because an orange is
not an apple.

3 Try another example by looking at the formula in cell D12. We got you
OD TO KNOW
en you create a started
formula,with
Excel=IF(C12<100,"Less than
will automatically place 100","Greater
colored thanany
borders around orranges
equalreferenced
to in the formula, and the corresponding
en you create a 100").
formula,What
Excelhappens
will automatically placea colored
if you enter numberborders
greateraround anyequal
than or ranges
toreferenced in the formula, and the corresponding
100 in cell C12?

e information on the web

bout the IF function
bout the IFS function
Dive down for more detail
anced IF statements Next
e Excel training online

IF statement with another function

IF statements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain
condition is met. Here we're going to evaluate a cell to see if Sales Tax should be
charged, and calculate it if the condition is true.

1 In cell F33, we've entered =IF(E33="Yes",F31*SalesTax,0), where we set up

SalesTax as a Named Range with a value of 0.0825. Our formula says If cell
E33 equals Yes, then multiply cell F31 times SalesTax, otherwise return a 0.

Try changing Yes to No in cell E33 to see the calculation change.

2
 2 Next we've added an IF statement to calculate shipping if it's required. In
cell F35 you'll see =IF(E35="Yes",SUM(D28:D29)*1.25,0). This says "If cell
E35 is Yes, then take the sum of the Quantity column in the table above,
and multiply it by 1.25, otherwise return a 0".

3 Next, change the 1.25 in the formula in cell F35 to "Shipping". As you start
typing, Excel's auto-correct, should find it for you. When it does, press Tab
to enter it. This is a Named Range, and we entered it from Formulas >
Define Name. Now, if you ever need to change your shipping cost, you
only have to do it in one place, and you can use the Shipping name
anywhere in the workbook.

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More information on the web

All about the IF function

All about the IFS function

Advanced IF statements

Free Excel training online

 t if one condition is true do something, otherwise do something else. The formulas can return text, values, or even more calculations.

will automatically capitalize them. Numbers don't need to be in quotes either. Regular text, like Yes or No does need to be in quotes like this

will automatically capitalize them. Numbers don't need to be in quotes either. Regular text, like Yes or No does need to be in quotes like this

IF statements
Apple

Orange

50 Less than 100

he formula, and the corresponding ranges in the formula will be the same color. You can see this if you select cell F33 and press F2 to edit
he formula, and the corresponding ranges in the formula will be the same color. You can see this if you select cell F33 and press F2 to edit
IMPORTANT DETAIL
TRUE and FALSE are unlike other words in Excel formulas in
that they don't need to be in quotes, and Excel will
automatically capitalize them. Numbers don't need to be in
quotes either. Regular text, like Yes or No does need to be
in quotes like this:
=IF(C3="Apple","Yes","No")

Item Quantity Cost Total

Widget 2 $9.76 $19.52
Doohickey 3 $3.42 $10.26

Sub-Total $13.18 $29.78

Sales Tax? Yes $2.46 GOOD TO KNOW

When you create a formula, Excel will auto
Shipping? Yes $6.25 place colored borders around any ranges r
in the formula, and the corresponding ran
formula will be the same color. You can see
Total $38.48 select cell F33 and press F2 to edit the form
 When you create a formula, Excel will auto
place colored borders around any ranges r
in the formula, and the corresponding ran
formula will be the same color. You can see
select cell F33 and press F2 to edit the form

EXPERT TIP
Named Ranges allow you to define terms or values in a
single place, and then reuse them throughout a workbook.
You can see all of the named ranges in this workbook by
going to Formulas > Name Manager. Click here to learn
more.
r even more calculations.

s need to be in quotes like this:

s need to be in quotes like this:

cell F33 and press F2 to edit the formula.GOOD TO KNOW

cell F33 and press F2 to edit the formula.

O KNOW
eate a formula, Excel will automatically
d borders around any ranges referenced
a, and the corresponding ranges in the
be the same color. You can see this if you
3 and press F2 to edit the formula.
eate a formula, Excel will automatically
d borders around any ranges referenced
a, and the corresponding ranges in the
be the same color. You can see this if you
3 and press F2 to edit the formula.
IF statement.
exists, but you
In
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we'll
In cellwrap
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VLOOKUP
=IFERROR(VLO
50. VLOOKUP
VLOOKUP
37:D41,2,FALS
VLOOKUP
OKUP(F43,F37: is one of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our favorites too!). VLOOKUP lets you look up a value in
looked
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E))
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You is one
want to look of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our favorites
for?
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column
should end to the up VLOOKUP lets you look up a value in a column on the left, then returns
nothing
returns
If you and
right, find too!).
(""),
a validit, how many columns to the right do you want to get a value?
with
then return
result,
returned
Where
=VLOOKUP(F22 then information
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for it? column to the right if it finds a match. VLOOKUP says:
nothing,
display
amount. that,
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otherwise
Do you want an exact, or approximate match?
otherwise,
SE). the
return
display nothing
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(""). We
results.
EXPERIMENT
displayed Note
the second
Try selecting
nothing here different items from the drop down lists. You'll see the result cells instantly update themselves with new values.
closing
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Dive down
parenthesis
can also useat
Next
the
numbersend of(0,1, the
formula.
VLOOKUP
2, etc.), orThis
and
text,#N/A
Invariably,
closes you'll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can't find what you asked it to, and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes
such asthe IF
statement.
"Formula isn't
IMPORTANT DETAIL
correct".
IFERROR is what's known as a blanket error handler, meaning it will suppress any error your formula might throw. This can caus

A rule of thumb is to not add error handlers to your formulas until you're absolutely certain they work properly.
Previous
Next
More information on the web
All about the VLOOKUP function
1
All about the INDEX/MATCH functions
All about the IFERROR function
Use PivotTables to analyze worksheet data
2 online
Free Excel training

Dive down for more detail

VLOOKUP and #N/A

Invariably, you'll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can't find what you asked it to,
and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes, it's because the lookup value simply
doesn't exist, or it can because the reference cell doesn't have a value yet.

1
 2

Previous

More information on the web

 VLOOKUP
OKUP is one of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our favorites too!). VLOOKUP lets you look up a value in a column on th

OOKUP(A1,B:C,2,FALSE)
VLOOKUP
at do you is one
want to look of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our favorites
for?
u find it, how many columns you
too!). VLOOKUP lets look
to the updoa you
right value in atocolumn
want on the left, then returns
get a value?
ere do information in another
you want to look for it? column to the right if it finds a match. VLOOKUP says:
you want an exact, or approximate What match?do you If you find it, how many
want to look columns to the right do
ERIMENT for? you want to get a value?
selecting different items from the drop down lists. You'll see the result cells instantly update themselves with new values.
down for more detail

OKUP
riably, and =VLOOKUP(A1,B:C,2,FALSE)
#N/A
you'll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can't find what you asked it to, and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes, it's because the

ORTANT DETAIL
ROR is what's known as a blanket error handler,
Wheremeaning
do it will Do
suppress any error your formula might throw. This can cause problems if Ex
you want
youformulas
le of thumb is to not add error handlers to your want to until you're
an exact, or
absolutely certain they work properly.
look for it? approximate
match?

e information on the web

bout the VLOOKUP function
1 In cell
bout the INDEX/MATCH
D22, enter =VLOOKUP(C22,C17:D20,2,FALSE). The correct answer
functions
for Apples is 50. VLOOKUP looked for Apples, found it, then went over one
bout the IFERROR function
column to the right, and returned the amount.
PivotTables to analyze worksheet data
2 online
e Excel training Now try for yourself in the Meat section, in cell G22. You should end up
with =VLOOKUP(F22,F17:G20,2,FALSE).

Dive down for more detail Next

VLOOKUP and #N/A

Invariably, you'll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can't find what you asked it to,
and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes, it's because the lookup value simply
doesn't exist, or it can because the reference cell doesn't have a value yet.

1 If you know your lookup value exists, but want to hide the error if the lookup
cell is blank, you can use an IF statement. In this case, we'll wrap our existing
VLOOKUP formula like this in cell D43:

=IF(C43="","",VLOOKUP(C43,C37:D41,2,FALSE))
 If you know your lookup value exists, but want to hide the error if the lookup
cell is blank, you can use an IF statement. In this case, we'll wrap our existing
VLOOKUP formula like this in cell D43:

=IF(C43="","",VLOOKUP(C43,C37:D41,2,FALSE))

This says, "If cell C43 equals nothing (""), then return nothing, otherwise
return the VLOOKUP's results". Note the second closing parenthesis at the
end of the formula. This closes the IF statement.

2 If you're not sure your lookup value exists, but you still want to suppress
the #N/A error, you can use an error handling function called IFERROR in
cell G43: =IFERROR(VLOOKUP(F43,F37:G41,2,FALSE),""). IFERROR says,
"If the VLOOKUP returns a valid result, then display that, otherwise, display
nothing ("")". We displayed nothing here (""), but you can also use numbers
(0,1, 2, etc.), or text, such as "Formula isn't correct".

Previous Next

More information on the web

All about the VLOOKUP function

All about the INDEX/MATCH functions

All about the IFERROR function

Use PivotTables to analyze worksheet data

Free Excel training online

u look up a value in a column on the left, then returns information in another column to the right if it finds a match. VLOOKUP says:

with new values.

#N/A). Sometimes, it's because the lookup value simply doesn't exist, or it can because the reference cell doesn't have a value yet.

Fruit Amount Meat Amount

Apples 50 Beef 50
Oranges 20 Chicken 30
Bananas 60 Pork 10
Lemons 40 Fish 50

Apples Pork

EXPERIMENT
Try selecting different items from the drop down lists. You'll see
the result cells instantly update themselves with new values.

M function in cell D42 could talk, it would say this: Sum up the values in cells D38, D39, D40, and D41.
Item Amount Item Amount
Bread 50 Bread 50
Donuts 100 Donuts 100
Cookies 40 Cookies 40
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
#N/A Pastry

IMPORTANT DETAIL
IFERROR is what's known as a blanket error handler, meaning it
will suppress any error your formula might throw. This can
cause problems if Excel is giving you a notification that your
formula has a legitimate error that needs to be fixed.

A rule of thumb is to not add error handlers to your formulas

until you're absolutely certain they work properly.
. VLOOKUP says:

have a value yet.

select
COUNTIFS different is
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=SUMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D4)
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VERAGEIFS(E92
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3,C106,D92:D9
=COUNTIFS(F5
2,D106)
Select cell D64 and type =COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64). COUNTIF is structured like this:
0:F61,F64,G50:
COUNTIF
=COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64)
G61,G64).
=COUNTIF(C92
COUNTIFS
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like 2 or number) do you want to look for?
=COUNTIFS(C9
2:C103,C106,D
92:D103,D106)
=COUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64)
MAXIFS
This is the first range to count
=MAXIFS(E92:E
This is the criteria for the first match
103,C92:C103,
C106,D92:D10
This is the second range to count
3,D106)
This
MINIFS is criteria for the second match
Dive down for more detail
=MINIFS(E92:E
103,C92:C103,
Next
C106,D92:D10
More
3,D106) conditional functions

=SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
Dive down for more detail
Next
SUMIF with a value argument
Here's an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values greater than a given amount:
200
Sum up some values based on this criterion:
....Look through these cells...
....Look through these cells...
...and if the value is greater than 50, sum it up.
...and if the value is greater than 50, sum it up.

NOTE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a PivotTable is a better solution. See this Piv
More information on the web
Dive down for more detail
All about the SUMIF function
All about the SUMIFS function
All about the COUNTIF function
All about the COUNTIFS function
Conditional functions - COUNTIF
All about the AVERAGEIF function
All about the AVERAGEIFS function
All about the MINIFS function
COUNTIF and COUNTIFS let you count values in a range based on a criteria you
All about the MAXIFS function
specify. They're a bit different from the other IF and IFS functions, in that they only
Create a drop-down list
Free Excel have a criteria
training online range, and criteria. They don't evalute one range, then look in another
Back to topto summarize.
Next
1

=COUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64)

Dive down for more detail

 Dive down for more detail

More conditional functions

You've already seen SUMIF, SUMIFS, COUNTIF, and COUNTIFS. Now you can try on
your own with the other functions, such as AVERAGEIF/S, MAXIFS, MINIFS. They're
all structured the same way, so once you get one formula written, you can just replace
the function name with the one you want. We've written all the functions you'll need
for cell E106, so you can copy/paste these, or try to type them yourself for practice.

SUMIF =SUMIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
SUMIFS =SUMIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
AVERAGEIF =AVERAGEIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
AVERAGEIFS =AVERAGEIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D92,D106)
COUNTIF =COUNTIF(C92:C103,C106)
COUNTIFS =COUNTIFS(C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MAXIFS =MAXIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MINIFS =MINIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)

Dive down for more detail

SUMIF with a value argument

Here's an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values
greater than a given amount:

Sum up some
values based
on this
criterion:

=SUMIF(D118:D122,">=50")
NOTE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a
PivotTable is a better solution. See this PivotTable article for more information.

More information on the web

More information on the web

Back to top
 Conditional functions - SUMIF
ditional functions - SUMIF
ditional functions let you sum, average, count or get the min or max of a range based on a given condition, or criteria
MIF lets you sum in one range based on a specifc criteria you look for in another range, like how many Apples you hav
Conditional functions let you sum, average, count or get the min or max of a range
MIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D4)
based on a given condition, or criteria you specify. Such as, out of all the fruits in the
at range
MIFS is thedosame
you want to look
as SUMIF, butat?
it lets you use multiple criteria. So in this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. S
MIFS is list,
the how many
same as are but
SUMIF, apples?
it letsOr, how
use many oranges
criteria.are thethis
Florida type?
at value (text or number) do you wantyou
to look multiple
for? So in example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. S
MIFS is the same as SUMIF, but it lets you use multiple criteria. So in this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. S
eachismatch
MIFS the samefound, what range
as SUMIF, but itdolets
youyou
want
usetomultiple
sum in?criteria. So in this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. S
1 SUMIF lets you sum in one range based on a specifc criteria you look for in
another range, like how many Apples you have. Select cell D17 and type
MIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
at range do you =SUMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D14).
want to sum? SUMIF is structured like this:
is the first range to look in for matches
What range do you For each match found, what
is the criteria for the first match
want to look at? range do you want to sum?

is the criteria for the second match

=SUMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D4)
down for more detail

ditional functions - COUNTIF

UNTIF and COUNTIFS let you count values inWhat a range based
value (textonoranumber)
criteria you specify. They're a bit different from the other IF and IFS function
ct cell D64 and type =COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64). do you want to
COUNTIF look for? like this:
is structured
UNTIF(C50:C61,C64)
at range do you want to look at?
2 or SUMIFS
at value (text number) do is the
yousame
want as SUMIF,
to look for?but it lets you use multiple criteria. So in this
example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. Select cell
H17 and type =SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17). SUMIFS is
UNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64)
structured like this:
is the first range to count
is the criteria for the firstWhat
matchrange This is the This is the
is the second range to count do you want criteria for criteria for
to sum? the first the second
is criteria for the second match
match match
down for more detail

e conditional functions

=SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
down for more detail

MIF with a value argument

e's an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values greater than a given amount:
This is the This is the
m up some values based on this criterion: first range to second range
look in for to look in for
ook through these cells... matches matches
ook through these cells...

Next
 first range to second range
look in for to look in for
matches matches

d if the value is greater than 50, sum it up.

nd if the value is greater than 50, sum it up.

E: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a PivotTable is a better solution. See this PivotTable article fo
e information on the web
Dive down for more detail Next
bout the SUMIF function
bout the SUMIFS function
bout the COUNTIF function
bout the COUNTIFS function
Conditional functions - COUNTIF
bout the AVERAGEIF function
bout the AVERAGEIFS function
bout the MINIFS function
COUNTIF and COUNTIFS let you count values in a range based on a criteria you
bout the MAXIFS function
specify. They're a bit different from the other IF and IFS functions, in that they only
ate a drop-down list
e Excel have a criteria
training online range, and criteria. They don't evalute one range, then look in another
to summarize.

1 Select cell D64 and type =COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64). COUNTIF is structured

like this: What range do you
want to look at?

=COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64)

What value (text or number)

do you want to look for?

2 COUNTIFS is the same as SUMIF, but it lets you use multiple criteria. So in
this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. Select
cell H64 and type =COUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64). COUNTIFS is
structured like this:
This is the first This is the second
range to count range to count

=COUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64)

This is the criteria This is criteria for

for the first match the second match

Dive down for more detail Next

 Dive down for more detail Next

More conditional functions

You've already seen SUMIF, SUMIFS, COUNTIF, and COUNTIFS. Now you can try on
your own with the other functions, such as AVERAGEIF/S, MAXIFS, MINIFS. They're
all structured the same way, so once you get one formula written, you can just replace
the function name with the one you want. We've written all the functions you'll need
for cell E106, so you can copy/paste these, or try to type them yourself for practice.

SUMIF =SUMIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
SUMIFS =SUMIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
AVERAGEIF =AVERAGEIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
AVERAGEIFS =AVERAGEIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D92,D106)
COUNTIF =COUNTIF(C92:C103,C106)
COUNTIFS =COUNTIFS(C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MAXIFS =MAXIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MINIFS =MINIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)

Dive down for more detail Next

SUMIF with a value argument

Here's an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values
greater than a given amount:

Sum up some ....Look through ...and if the

values based these cells... value is
on this greater than
criterion: 50, sum it up.

=SUMIF(D118:D122,">=50")
NOTE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a
PivotTable is a better solution. See this PivotTable article for more information.

More information on the web

More information on the web
All about the SUMIF function All about the SUMIFS function

All about the COUNTIF function All about the COUNTIFS function

All about the AVERAGEIF function All about the AVERAGEIFS function

All about the MINIFS function All about the MAXIFS function

Create a drop-down list Free Excel training online

Back to top Next step

 Fruit Amount Fruit Type Amount
Apples 50 Apples Fuji 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Florida 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Rough 40
Apples 50 Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Navel 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Lady Finger 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Eureka 40
Apples 50 Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Navel 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Eureka 40

Fruit SUMIF Fruit Type SUMIFS

Apples Oranges Florida

t from the other IF and IFS functions, in that they only have a criteria range, and criteria. They don't evalute one
EXPERT TIP range, then look in anothe
Each one of the Fruit and Type cells has
a drop-down list where you can select
different fruits. Try it, and watch the
formulas automatically update.
lution. See this PivotTable article for more information.

Fruit Amount Fruit Type Amount

Apples 50 Apples Fuji 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Florida 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Rough 40
Apples 50 Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Navel 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Lady Finger 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Eureka 40
Apples 50 Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Navel 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Eureka 40

Fruit COUNTIF Fruit Type COUNTIFS

Apples 3 Oranges Florida 1
Fruit Type Amount
Apples Fuji 50
Oranges Florida 20
Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons Rough 40
Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges Navel 20
Bananas Lady Finger 60
Lemons Eureka 40
Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges Navel 20
Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons Eureka 40

Fruit Type Try it

Lemons Eureka 80

Item Amount
Bread 50
Donuts 100
Cookies 40
Cakes 50
Pies 20
200
Pange, then look in another to summarize.
Fruit and Type cells has
where you can select
Try it, and watch the
atically update.
GOOD TO KNOW
Double-click this cell and you'll see that the formula
is different. Specifically, the sum criteria is ">=50"
which means greater than or equal to 50. There are
other operators you can use like "<=50" which is less
than or equal to 50. And there's "<>50" which is not
equals 50.
the bottom. As
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=VLOOKUP(C10
bottom of you
,C5:D8,2,FALSE)the can use the Function Wizard to help you out.
form, above
GOOD TO KNOW
the Formula
result. type 1
You can cell and range references, or select them with your mouse.

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Overview of formulas in Excel
2 (by category)
Excel functions
Excel functions (alphabetical)
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 Let the Function Wizard guide you
he Function Wizard guide you
u know the name of the function you want, but you're not sure how to build it, you can use the Function Wizard to help you out.

If you know the name of the function you want, but you're not sure how to build it,
you can use the Function Wizard to help you out.
OD TO KNOW
can type 1 Select
cell and range cell D10, then
references, go to
or select Formulas
them with your>mouse.
Insert Function > type
VLOOKUP in the Search for a function box, and press GO. When you
see VLOOKUP highlighted, click OK at the bottom. When you select a
function in the list, Excel will display its syntax.
e information on the web
rview of formulas in Excel
2 (by category)
l functions Next, enter the function arguments in their respective text boxes. As you
enter each one, Excel will evaluate it, and show you its result, with the final
l functions (alphabetical)
result at the bottom. Press OK when you're done, and Excel will enter the
Excel training online
formula for you.

GOOD TO KNOW
As you enter each argument's section, the arg
toward the bottom of the form, above the Fo

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Overview of formulas in Excel

Excel functions (by category)

Excel functions (alphabetical)

Free Excel training online

 Wizard to help you out.

Fruit Amount
Apples 50

Oranges 20
Bananas 60
Lemons 40

Apples 50

CHECK THIS OUT

You should end up with
=VLOOKUP(C10,C5:D8,2,FALSE)

GOOD TO KNOW
You can type cell and range references, or select them
with your mouse.

TO KNOW
er each argument's section, the argument's description will be displayed
bottom of the form, above the Formula result.
Fixing
At some Fixing formula errors
formula errors
point in time, you'll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will display with #ErrorName. Errors can be hel

Error checking - Go to Formulas > Error Checking. This will load a dialog that will tell you the general cause for your specific erro
GOOD TO At some point in time, you'll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will
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time you several options
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Excel can help
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It won't it.
necessarily tell you why an erro
rules for when
errors in Excel
EXPERIMENT
are displayed
What's wrong here? Hint: We're trying to SUM up all the items.
or ignored.

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Detect errors in formulas
How to avoid broken formulas
Evaluate a nested formula one step at a time
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3
 3

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ome Fixing formula errors
g formula errors
point in time, you'll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will display with #ErrorName. Errors can be helpful, because th

r checking - Go to Formulas > Error Checking. This will load a dialog that will tell you the general cause for your specific error. In cell D9, the
At some point in time, you'll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will
u clickdisplay
Help onwith #ErrorName.
this Error, Errors
a help topic can be
specific helpful,
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something's not working right, but they can be challenging to fix. Fortunately, there
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#N/A error is caused because there is no value matching "Apple". You can
ct errors in formulas
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this by using a value that does exist, suppress the error with IFERROR, or
ignore
uate a nested formula one it and
stepknow it will go away when you do use a value that exists.
at a time
Excel training online

2 If you click Help on this Error, a help topic specific to the error message
will open. If you click Show Calculation Steps, an Evaluate Formula dialog
will load.

3 Each time you click Evaluate, Excel will step through the formula one
section at a time. It won't necessarily tell you why an error occurs, but it will
point out where. From there, look at the help topic to deduce what went
wrong with your formula.
 3 Each time you click Evaluate, Excel will step through the formula one
section at a time. It won't necessarily tell you why an error occurs, but it will
point out where. From there, look at the help topic to deduce what went
wrong with your formula.

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More information on the web

Detect errors in formulas

How to avoid broken formulas

Evaluate a nested formula one step at a time

Free Excel training online

. Errors can be helpful, because they point out when something's not working right, but they can be challenging to fix. Fortunately, there a

Fruit Amount

Apples 50

Oranges 20

Bananas 60
Lemons 40

Apple #N/A

GOOD TO KNOW
Clicking Options will let you set the
rules for when errors in Excel are
displayed or ignored.

Fruit Amount
Apples 50
Oranges 20
Bananas 60
Lemons 40

Total #NAME?

EXPERIMENT
What's wrong here? Hint: We're trying to SUM
up all the items.
EXPERIMENT
What's wrong here? Hint: We're trying to SUM
up all the items.
ng to fix. Fortunately, there are several options that can help you track down the source of the error, and fix it.
More questions about Excel?
Press ALT+Q and type what you want to know.
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More questions about Excel?
Press ALT+Q and type what you want to know.
More questions about Excel?
Keep going. There is more to learn with Excel:
LinkedIn Learning: Video courses for all levels—from beginner to advanced. Take at your own pace.
Community: Ask questions and connect with other Excel fans.

Give us feedback on this tour

Click the Tell Me button and type what you want to know.

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Video courses for all Ask questions and
levels—from beginner to connect with other
advanced. Take at your Excel fans.
own pace.
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ow.

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Office 365 subscribers
get continual updates
and new features.

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us feedback on this tour